Ancelotti: This victory strengthens the team’s resolve and we’ll fight until the end

Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti was elated by his side’s 0-4 win over Real Sociedad at the notoriously hostile Anoeta and insists that after the complete performance, they will continue fighting for La Liga until the end.

In his post-match press conference, Ancelotti analysed the match and insisted that they will remain in the hunt for La Liga.

“A valued the entire performance, because we played very well. We played intelligently. We started with a very high pace and the match was very good. It was a good contest. I am very happy. I have a team who likes to fight and I’m proud to coach this team.

“The victory strengthens the team’s resolve. We are on a good run of form. We are behind in the standings, but we will fight until the end.

“All matches are difficult, but we were focused, especially in the second half.”

Ancelotti then spoke about Gareth Bale’s performance in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo and why the Portuguese international was held out.

“We played at the left wing position because that left the field open to attack. They often change positions amongst themselves. We are lucky to have them both with us.

“I wanted to avoid injuries. Players like Cristiano, for example, were rested. We wanted to avoid problems. Then there is the concern about their physical fitness because it’s not easy to recover quickly after a game like we had on Wednesday. The level of intensity was very good. The biggest concern going into the match was that we’d be lacking in intensity and after that the good organisation in the field. We didn’t give La Real anything to improve their performance.”

Ancelotti concluded by discussing the whistles to Asier Illarramendi, in his first appearance back at Anoeta.

“He wasn’t upset by what happened. He was very focused on the game. He played a very good game, especially on the defensive side.”